How to Find Copies of W-2 Forms Filed With the IRS

It's best to get a copy of a W-2 from your employer or ex-employer, if you can.

A W-2 form is used to report an employee's annual wages, and also the amount of taxes withheld from income. W-2 forms are also used by the Social Security Administration when FICA tax payments are reported. Because this form is needed when you file your taxes, federal law requires employers to send W-2 forms to employees by the end of January each calendar year. If you lost your W-2, you can request a copy from an employer or the Internal Revenue Service.

Things You'll Need

• Social Security number

Instructions

1. Contact previous or current employers, and request another W-2. If your employer is no longer in business, go to Step 2.

2. Call the IRS toll-free at 1-800-829-1040. You will need your employer's name and address (including city, state and ZIP code) and your Social Security number. You'll need to give an estimate of how much wages were earned, taxes withheld and how long you were employed in the job.

3. Fill out IRS Form 4506, and submit $57 for each W-2 requested. Be sure to specify the year or years.

References

• Back Taxes Help: Missing, Lost or Never Received A W2? What To Do

Resources

• IRS: Request for Copy of Tax Return